Las Macanas Marshes

It is the largest wetland ecosystem immersed in the central provinces, comprising 2,000 hectares, 1,200 of which are water that floods the area and the rest dispersed in wetlands.

Its importance lies in the great biodiversity that it contains, and the obvious presence of diverse species of migratory and local birds that inhabit the place make it a perfect place for birders. This attractive site is equipped with an interconnected trail system to facilitate exploration of the area. The paths meet up with each other in the center, which overlooks a small island of trees in the middle of the wetland. This place also features a look-out tower approximately 6 meters high, in some cases above the level of the tree canopy, which allows for great bird watching.

Las Macanas Marshes was originally created as a Biological Reserve, by Municipal Decree 41 on July 20, 1986. Due to the variety of agricultural activities also carried out in the area, on July 5, 1996, by resolution 52, the category was changed to a multiple-use zone.

Location

Las Macanas Marshes is located in the township of El Rincón, district of Santa María, province of Herrera. The entrance is 2 kilometers past the village of Santa María, on the Divisa-Chitré route.

How to arrive

Car: You will find the entrance to Rincón de Santa María 7.4 kms after passing Divisa. At the intersection 2.5 kms past the turnoff, take the road to the right. From then on the road is unpaved. About 200 meters later, turn left and continue on a stone path (2.9 kms). The total distance from the turnoff of the main highway is approximately 5.4 kms. ANAM has a small station at the entrance.